Energy Affordability in California
California residents are experiencing rising energy costs while many remain unfamiliar with how electricity prices are determined.
Key Findings
The average winter energy burden in California is 9.20%, above the national affordability benchmark.
65.54% of respondents said they do not understand what appears on their energy bill.
48.65% of respondents do not know what the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) is or that it regulates energy prices.
California Public Utilities Commission (cPUC)
Without clear information about energy systems, residents may struggle to understand why costs increase or how they can advocate for fairer rates. The CPUC oversees many decisions related to electricity pricing, infrastructure investments, and consumer protections.
Highlights of the state’s contribution to the national campaign
Take Action!
Community engagement and voting play an important role in ensuring energy policies prioritize affordability and transparency.
State Resources
Provides income-qualified households with 30–35% discounts on electricity bills and about 20% on natural gas bills to help make energy more affordable.
A federally funded program that helps low-income households pay heating and cooling energy bills and provides emergency utility assistance.